Does elevating a structure on posts or pilings remove a building from the SFHA?

Elevating a structure on posts or pilings does not remove a building from the SFHA. If the ground around the supporting posts or pilings is within the floodplain, the building is still at risk. Ground saturation can lead to decreased load-bearing capacity of the soil supporting the posts or pilings, which can lead to partial or full collapse of the structure. Flood insurance will be required as a condition of receipt of Federal or federally regulated financing for the structure.
FEMA recommends securely elevating structures above the SFHA to reduce the risk to life and property, and has established a rating structure that could result in significant savings in premium costs for those who elevate.